ORLANDO, Florida – Central Florida braces for a stormy afternoon and evening on Friday, May 9, 2025, with severe weather threats, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne.
Severe Weather Outlook
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued a severe storm warning for May 9, 2025:
- Level 2 (Slight Risk): North and east of Orlando, indicating a heightened chance of severe storms.
- Level 1 (Marginal Risk): South and west of Orlando, with a lower but still notable risk.
- Potential Hazards: Gusty winds (50-60 mph), hail up to 1 inch in diameter, frequent lightning, and heavy rainfall.
The eastern half of Central Florida faces the highest risk of strong to severe storms, with peak intensity expected between 4 PM and 9 PM.
What Damage Can Large Hail Do?
Hailstones the size of quarters or larger can:
- Dent vehicles and damage roofs.
- Shatter windows.
- Pose deadly risks to animals and people.
Hail can fall at speeds exceeding 100 mph, amplifying its destructive potential. Learn more about hail dangers here.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast
The NWS in Melbourne has identified a Level 1 of 4 Marginal Risk for excessive rainfall across most of East Central Florida. Between 4 PM and 10 PM, heavy showers may cause:
- Ponding of water on roadways.
- Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
Orlando Weather Forecast
Friday Afternoon
Mostly sunny, high near 90°F, south wind around 5 mph. A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 PM, some potentially severe.
Friday Night…